Origin : Cuba
Format : Corona Gorda (Francisco)
Size : 143 x 17.46 mm (5 5/8 x 44)
Ring : 44
Hand-Made
Price : $12+ each
This is probably the cigar that I wanted the most from the Limited Editions sampler. Ramon Allones Eminencias was released in 2005 to the Swiss market to celebrate the 160th anniversary of the brand. It is called Eminencia in honor of the factory where Ramon Allones were initially rolled. The vitola’s name is Francisco and it’s close to a corona gorda. There was a re-release in 2007 but the one I smoked is from the original release, considered as more successful. I was ready for a royal treat.
Appearance : Rating: 
The cigar seems to be well-rolled, the wrapper is moderately oily and has several shades of brown although the difference is hardly visible. It has a pleasant sour smell. The pre-draw is easy and rich with spice, earth and tobacco. It’s an elegant-looking cigar.
Construction : Rating: 
The construction was top-notch with a perfect draw and a burn line that I expect from a premium cigar. I can’t give it a 5/5 though because the ash didn’t hold for more than 1 inch.
Flavor : Rating:
I easily lit it with just one match. The initial spice kick is spectacular. The flavor is bold and the detected notes are of expensive wood, oak and white pepper. The smoke is creamy and doesn’t leave a dry sensation in the mouth. In the second third, the Eminencia slowly deploys round flavors of cedar and dark chocolate. In the background, I detected a taste of dried apples. Soon the cigar gains in profoundness; however there is no aggressivity or harshness whatsoever. Some roasted coffee near the finish makes it a truly complex smoke. It was a pleasure to smoke it until my fingers burnt.
Value : Rating:
It’s hard to discuss the value because this cigar is hardly available anywhere these days. Regional productions are usually limited to several thousand boxes and most of them have probably already found their owners. All I can say is that it is surely worth its initial price tag.
Overall Rating : Rating:
The Eminencia aged very nicely. I enjoyed it a lot. Although I can’t say that it’s on its peak right now, if you have a box, it might be a good idea to try one.
This post was written by Denis aka Inspector, who founded CigarInspector.com back in 2007. Click here for his latest articles and more information.
